Angelo Mathews Retires from Test Cricket

Angelo Mathews has announced his retirement from Test cricket. Mathews, who played his final match against Bangladesh in Galle, says he is stepping down to make room for younger players. 

The Sri Lankan cricketer made his Test debut in 2009 against Pakistan. He went on to represent Sri Lanka in 119 Test matches and retired as Sri Lanka’s third-highest run scorer in Test cricket, behind Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. 

“I’ve still got six more months to go. I’ll give it my best shot for the 2026 T20 World Cup. I would love to sign off with a World Cup win. I’ll just see how my body goes,” Mathews said in the post-match press conference.

Mathew's highest score in Tests was 200, and he ended his red-ball career with over 8,200 runs at a strike rate of 48.40. As a bowler, Mathews bowled close to 4,000 deliveries, conceded 1,798 runs, and picked up 33 wickets, proving his value as a reliable all-rounder.

“Your fighting spirit and calm under pressure inspired not just me but an entire generation of young cricketers in Sri Lanka. Your legacy will live on in us, the lucky ones who were by your side. Wishing you all the best as you begin your next chapter. You will always be a legend to me,” DHM Istihaq, a Sri Lanka cricket coach, said in an Instagram post.

Angelo will continue to play for Sri Lanka in ODIs and T20Is, with his sights set on the 2026 T20 World Cup.